Jacob is a PhD Candidate at Queen Mary University London. The development of a one-handed bass guitar is the subject of his Media and Arts Technology placement. At this stage he is investigating three approaches: (i) Replacing the functionality of the fretting hand with linear solenoid actuators placed directly above each fret; (ii) replacing the functionality of the picking hand using a mechanical picking mechanism; or (iii) augmenting the fretboard of a bass guitar to extend the `hammer-on/pull-off' technique.

​HIGHLY COMMENDED - The Chromatic Tuba Machine by Ryan BaerThis tuba was constructed after seeing a picture of a similar instrument from 1851! A tuba is placed in a stand and the valves are linked by cable to a piston mechanism which is operated by foot (and knee) instead of by hand. All other aspects of playing the tuba remain the same. ​​

2015 Competition resultsConcept Winner - Clarion by Barry Farrimond

The Clarion is a musical instrument interface, based upon a conventional keyboard layout, that can be navigated through mouse movement. A red circle follows the mouse across the screen, showing the musician her/his position. Using mouse movement as a means of navigation﻿opens up access to musicians who are able to control a mouse with computer peripherals like Eyegaze, SmartNav or indeed ﻿one hand placed upon a track pad or mouse. Dynamics and expression can be controlled through various elements. On screen, when a note is triggered, a square pops up and remains visible until the note is released. Movement within this square is used to affect a range of musical parameters including vibrato intensity, vibrato rate, flutter tongue and growl. The Clarion has also been designed to work with MIDI breath controllers, providing real-time musical dynamics and expression.

Concept Winner - Synthobone by Petter Ericson and Tomas Härdin

This concept is trying to emulate the trombone. Specifically, the instrument is a Teensy-based software synthesizer, where the input system consists of a ''slide'' operated by the thumb, and four buttons for the other fingers, used to choose the overtone. The concept uses the seven trombone positions so would be easy to understand for an existing trombonist and therefore practical to teach to others. The prototype is currently in it's infancy but has considerable potential to enable someone without the use of one hand/arm to be able to play an effective emulation of a trombone.

2014 Competition resultsConcept category

These entries require further development before they can be fully playable by a one-handed musician

JamboxxThe instrument simulates several different types of instruments. While the nature of the Jamboxx is a hybrid device utilizing a software interface with the computer, the device has some characteristics of a harmonica. However, for persons that are quadriplegic or one-handed it can be used in a handheld or hands-free mode. The software interface allows for transforming the number of notes played as well as the scale provided. In addition, instrument sounds can be manipulated with breath control and not the various parameters using digital software interfaces which accompany the controller. The ultimate design is to utilize one button click during performance or recording or production to enable the user to transform the instrument to their needs.Tobias performs on the Jamboxx

Mi.Mu TubaSubmitted by Kelly SnookThe Mi.Mu musical data glove system has been developed and built over the past four years by Imogen Heap and a small team of musicians, engineers, and artists. The glove system combines state-of-the-art sensor technology with custom machine learning algorithms and mapping software to allow gestures to be easily mapped to musical parameters on a computer. The glove has been adapted for use with one hand, along with other (optional) parts of the body, and programmed with pre-existing music software to emulate the Tuba.Read about the Mi Mu Project.

You Rock GuitarThe You Rock Guitar aka YRG Gen2 is a fast tracking no latency MIDI controller that was created as a means to input music through various software applications, external synth modules and virtual instruments.The YRG’s unique patented fingerboard technology has allowed users with disabilities to be able to access music they have been unable to do before. The You Rock Guitar is in a working environment with the organisation TERI, Inc who work with children and adults with Down Syndrome, Autism and other disabilities, as well as with Warrior Cry, an organisation that works with wounded veterans who have lost limbs and other debilitating issues.Video demonstration

One Handed Trumpet Proposal Submitted by Callum GoddardA paper outlining an electronic solution, with a three part design system, that allows the trumpet to be played one handed. This consists of a supporting brace system, extension to the first valve slide grip and electromechanical operation of the third valve slide, controllable via a foot pedal.One Handed Trumpet proposal paper

Trumpet attachmentSubmitted by Michael PrestageThe attachment provides two rings to help support the weight of the trumpet and a palm support to prevent the instrument swinging towards the player’s hand under its own weight. It also allows use for a first valve trigger, for intonation adjustments. Images of the device